The Caldecott Medal, awarded annually by the Association for Library Service to Children, is an honor given to the artists creating the “most distinguished American children’s books published the previous year.” This year’s winners are beautiful and diverse stories that will be enjoyed by both children and the adults reading with them.
Review the list below to see the list of winners. As an early childhood educator or caregiver, you may find some books that you’d like to add to your classroom or center’s collection of stories.
Illustrated and written by Sophie Blackall, this book tells a story of a lighthouse and the family inside. The beautiful and vibrant images of the lighthouse, surrounded by water, in various kinds of weather is coupled with descriptive text and thought provoking imagery. While the story’s images can be enjoyed by children of all ages, the text will be most appreciated by children 5 years and older.
Written and illustrated by Juana Martinez-Neal, this book is about a girl who wonders about the origin of her name. Her father tells stories about the family’s ancestral history, illustrated in graphite and colored pencil, that enlighten Alma about how her name came to be. The story’s sweet celebration of family and heritage will be enjoyed by children in preschool and pre-k.
Written and illustrated by Grace Lin, this book uses unique patterns and eye-catching colors to tell the story of a child and her mother as they bake a mooncake. The book explores the phases of the moon, and why it changes shape each night. This clever story will be enjoyed by children 4 years and older.
This book, illustrated and written by Brian Lies, tells the story of friendship and loss, through a fox named Evan whose dog dies. The story’s hopeful message is illustrated in detailed and moving pictures of grief, nature, and light. This book will be enjoyed by children 4 years and older.
This story, illustrated and written by Oge Mora, tells of Omu’s tasty red stew, that is the envy of all of her neighbors. As members of the community come to her door for a taste, Omu offers everyone a scoop. Mora’s message of generosity and community shine through the book’s textures and mixed media images. This story will be enjoyed by children in preschool and pre-k.
